ANNALS OF INISFALLEN The Annals of Inisfallen [ÉAMON DE VALERA’S COPY IN FINE DUBLIN BINDING]

(MS. Rawlinson B. 503). Edited with translation and indexes by Sean MacAirt. Dublin: Institute for Advanced Studies, 1951. First edition. Royal octavo. pp. lii, 596. Bound by Thoms in full dark blue morocco over bevelled boards, covers ruled by a single gilt fillet, spine divided into six panels by five gilt raised bands, title and editor in gilt on contrasting morocco labels; splash-marbled endpapers; blue and white endbands. Signature of Éamon de Valera on titlepage. Top edge gilt. A near fine copy.

‘The Annals of Inisfallen’ were compiled on a small island in the lower Lake of Killarney, opposite Ross Castle, where the remains of an abbey are still to be found. There is not much known of their history until they came into the possession of Sir James Ware (1594-1666). These Annals, like those ascribed to Tighernach are preceded by the brief chronicle of universal history in which the early Irish kings make their appearance, and the birth, captivity and escape of St. Patrick are recorded. This is followed by the history of Ireland from A.D. 428 and continues down to the year 1326. An English translation of a portion of the Annals was made for the use of Ware, by that well-known Connaught antiquary Duald MacFirbis, a copy of which is preserved in Trinity College. Provenance: From the library of Éamon de Valera.